Claude Linton

Claude William Linton, known affectionately as Billy by his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in his hometown of Plant City, Florida, where he was also born on December 26, 1946. Billy's life was one marked by a profound sense of love and generosity, traits that deeply endeared him to all who knew him.

Billy's journey through life was shared with his beloved wives, Sandra and Martha Linton, both of whom preceded him in death. Their memories were lovingly cherished by Billy, a testament to the deep bonds of love and partnership they shared. He leaves behind a legacy through his children, Russell Linton and his wife Jennifer, and Kayla Bassinger and her husband Phillip, who will carry forward the values and traditions their father held dear.

Billy was the proud brother to Buddy Linton, who remains to honor his memory, and he was predeceased by his siblings, Florence Jordan and Bert Fuller. Their shared childhood memories and the strong family ties they nurtured continued to be a source of comfort and strength for Billy throughout his life.

The light of Billy's life shone brightly through his adoring grandchildren, Sierra, Emily, Garrett Linton, and Evan and Jesse Bassinger. Each of them was a joy and a blessing to him, and he took great pride in their accomplishments and the unique individuals they were becoming.

Billy's life was characterized by a deep faith, as a devoted member of the First Assembly of God Church. His spiritual life was a cornerstone of his existence, providing him with guidance and solace throughout his years. He found great joy in fellowship with his church community, where he was known for his loving nature and his readiness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

A man of the land, Billy's passion for raising cows was more than a hobby; it was a way of life. He was a familiar and respected figure at cattle auctions, where his expertise and love for the industry were evident to all who had the pleasure of doing business with him. His connection to the earth and the animals he cared for was a reflection of his generous spirit and his kind-heartedness.

Those who knew Billy will remember him as a man who lived his life with kindness and generosity. He was always ready with a warm smile, an encouraging word, and an open heart. His presence was a comfort and a source of stability, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to have been touched by his life.

As we bid farewell to Claude William Linton, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, kindness, and generosity. Billy's memory will live on through the stories shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave. In every gentle breeze across the fields he loved, in every moment of laughter among his grandchildren, and in every gathering of the community he held dear, Billy's spirit will be there, continuing to guide and inspire us.

Friends and family will be received from Wednesday, February 25, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563.
Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563, (813) 717-9300